Al Quoz Sprint (Group 1)

THE Brendan Walsh-trained Extravagant Kid became the first American-trained winner of the $1 million Group 1 Al Quoz Sprint when he beat the Irish-bred duo of Final Song and Acklam Express.

The field initially split into three groups, and Ryan Moore produced an inspired ride when he took the eight-year-old son of Kiss The Kid towards the stands’ side. From there he launched his attack to take the lead in the shadow of the winning line, winning by half a length. This was the winner’s first graded success.

“What an unbelievable race,” said his owner David A Ross. “His trainer had a good feeling about him. He came into the race well, Brendan had him prepped well. He really liked the venue here and we thought we would take advantage. As an eight-year-old, what about that?”

Irish-born Walsh, a former assistant to Godolphin, has a perfect record at Meydan where he has now won twice from two starts after the victory of Plus Que Parfait in the Group 2 UAE Derby two years ago. He said: “No credit must go to me; I just put the saddle on. My lad here looked after him and he was very pleased with him.”

Ryan Moore, who was gaining his first win in this six-furlong sprint, commented: “It was a very messy race. The speed looked like it was going to be stands’ side but we had to make a decision. Space Blues and Khaadem were going; they were the best horses and gave me a bit of toe. This horse ran a super race at Keeneland [fourth to Glass Slippers in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint].”